Peace Garden News

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced the launch of an online application for Community Health Worker (CHW) Certification. This initiative aims to strengthen the state’s health workforce and improve access to care and support.

Community health workers serve as frontline public health professionals, connecting people with healthcare, social services, and other resources that support well-being. They may be employed by hospitals, tribal health organizations, public health units, or other entities.

The new certification process is designed to standardize training and practice for community health workers across North Dakota. It also enables North Dakota Medicaid to reimburse certified CHWs for services provided to Medicaid members.

“We are pleased to create this certification process and formally recognize the essential role community health workers have in North Dakota,” said HHS Health Response and Licensure Section Director Tim Wiedrich. “Certification builds trust by ensuring these health professionals are well prepared to meet the needs of individuals and communities.”

Information about the certification application and related resources can be found on the HHS website at hhs.nd.gov/regulation-licensure-and-certification/comm-hlth-worker. Interested individuals can also learn more or apply by calling (701)328-8655, 711 (TTY), or emailing hrlsection@nd.gov.

There are four pathways available for those seeking CHW certification: completing a community health worker training program with internship, Indian Health Service Community Health Representative training, supervised work experience, or obtaining reciprocity if already certified or licensed in another state.